Shooting Ethics & a Terrific Priest

Yesterday I had an 11 hour wedding but had the good fortune of working with a wonderful Priest during the church portion of the day. Even though the day was long, It's always a pleasure when you encounter others who appreciate the nature of your craft.

Going into the church I knew that flash was permitted because it was indicated on my contract. I always like to have this information in writing as part of my "guidelines" for the day. I also introduce myself to the clergy before each ceremony, doublechecking "house rules" and getting suggestions/tips on where I should or should not venture. The priest is certainly a "Pro" in his own right, and I believe in mutual courtesy.

At the start of the ceremony, the Priest welcomed everybody and then kindly added: "I would also appreciate it if today's guests will allow the professional photographer that was selected by the bride & groom to do the job that he was hired to do, and also that the guests not to use any flash at all during the ceremony." I can't tell you how impressed I was with statement and how nicely it made me feel.

After all had filed out of the church, I went up to the priest and thanked him for his understanding and consideration. He said he knew we all had to do our jobs too and that it was important that everybody should understand this.

I bring up this example because there are periodic posts on how we "Pro's" should handle ourselves while on the job. If we want to keep the bar high, then we need to conduct ourselves in a professional manner. Part of being professional is showing respect in a house of worship. Some don't understand this which always amazes me. It never hurts to introduce yourself to the clergy or the facility's coordinator. If worse comes to worse and you can't use flash, well then that's what your second camera and tripod are to be used for. - Stu

when meeting the priest, is it best to say "Sir" or "father"?

Excellent advice . I sometimes have a hard time keeping the demoninations straight, so I'll usually go with "Father." At least it shows you're make a respectful effort.

sapearl wrote in post #2503626
At the start of the ceremony, the Priest welcomed everybody and then kindly added: "I would also appreciate it if today's guests will allow the professional photographer that was selected by the bride & groom to do the job that he was hired to do, and also that the guests not to use any flash at all during the ceremony." I can't tell you how impressed I was with statement and how nicely it made me feel.

. - Stu

Awesome! I hated that at the last wedding the preacher made a point to tell me no flash, which is completely fine by me, but still had a guest snap pics the entire ceremony! Thats great!

I can't wait to see pics!

Stu, can you ship him over here, i'd love to have a priest like that!

At a wedding last weekend the Pastor did the same thing...in English and in Spanish, which was great except that everybody stared at me like I was special.

I'd love to share the good fortune Tim! . I lucked out with this clergyman. Most of them don't say that much in their intro, but many do give me a pretty good amount of leeway in my activity. As I'm sure you're aware, so much has to do with the respectful manner and deference with which you approach them.

Almost universally they do NOT want the photographer coming up the steps at all, at the front of the sanctuary. Then he/she becomes the center of attention, and not the B&G.

tim wrote in post #2504178
Stu, can you ship him over here, i'd love to have a priest like that!

There you go Phil - you were officially "sanctioned and blessed." Circumstances don't get too much better than that.

Philco wrote in post #2504233
At a wedding last weekend the Pastor did the same thing...in English and in Spanish, which was great except that everybody stared at me like I was special.

Yeah Kathy - been there done that.... really grates on me... just have to grin and bear it while the public paparazzi blaze away with their point and shoots.

kathy.patterson wrote in post #2504083
.... I hated that at the last wedding the preacher made a point to tell me no flash, which is completely fine by me, but still had a guest snap pics the entire ceremony!.....!

This priest remembered to ask the crowd to stowe their cameras, yet he managed to forget the Bride's name during the vows, which resulted in her having to tell him.....yikes. That was a first!

My last wedding the Pastor was great....the grooms side was a little rough...the first two bridesmaids came out early and beat the groom to the pulpit..missed the shot, but got a great shot of the bridesmaid when she realized what she had done....

Philco wrote in post #2504290
This priest remembered to ask the crowd to stowe their cameras, yet he managed to forget the Bride's name during the vows, which resulted in her having to tell him.....yikes. That was a first!

I shot one recently where the minister referred the bride and groom using one of the bridesmaid's name. ie. 'Groom and Bridesmaid' will be joined together. Got a laugh out of everyone, not least the Bride!